The modern condition

In this collection, a leading sociologist brings his distinctive method of social criticism to bear on some of the most significant ideas, political and social events, and thinkers of the late twentieth century. Of the seventeen essays, two are published for the first time, and several of the previously published essays have been expanded and updated for this volume.

In the first section, the author critiques several concepts that have figured prominently in political-ideological controversies - capitalism, rationality, totalitarianism, power, alienation, left and right, and cultural relativism/multiculturalism. The second section highlights the author's lifelong interest in the relation of intellectuals to social classes and institutions.